After a marathon judicial process that concluded in the early hours of today (12 February 2026), eight more defendants accused of involvement in a cigarette smuggling ring were remanded to custody following their court appearances. Among them were two brothers known by the nicknames ‘Putin’ and ‘President’, who are alleged to have held leadership roles within the criminal organization.
Denials and Allegations of Targeting
According to reports, the brothers denied all charges, maintaining they are legitimate businessmen and claiming they were singled out in the cigarette smuggling case due to competing economic interests.
Eight Remanded, Others Released Under Conditions
Six additional suspects were unanimously ordered detained by the examining magistrate and prosecutor. In total, after two days of investigative hearings, eight individuals linked to the illicit tobacco trade entered Greek prisons. The remaining defendants were released—some unconditionally, others under judicial restrictions. One suspect was also required to post a monetary bail.
Severe Charges Against All 26 Suspects
All 26 arrested individuals face serious criminal charges, including directing and participating in a criminal organization, forgery, cigarette smuggling, and aggravated illegal possession of firearms.